Christmas presents with lasting value

Most gifts are bought to bring immediate joy to friends or family, but at AJB Wealth we like to take a longer-term view as well. So, what if your present had potential for holding its value — or even appreciating? In this article, we look at gifts that combine sentiment with substance: items that can be enjoyed now and cherished for years to come. We also highlight some options for solid financial gifts.

Before we dive in, let’s be clear: buying art, fine wine and other collectibles is not a substitute for a normal investment strategy. This is not financial advice, but rather inspiration for meaningful gifts with added character and longevity.

For any gift to have lasting value, quality is key. In some cases, rarity, provenance and investment potential will also be relevant.

Why choose gifts with potential value?

• Uniqueness: Items with rarity or craftsmanship often stand out, making them feel special to the recipient.
• Longevity: A well-chosen piece can be treasured for decades and may become a family heirloom.
• Conversation starter: These gifts often come with a story, making them memorable.

Gifts that will stand the test of time

Antiques or vintage pieces

Carefully chosen antique or vintage items can be a wonderful option.

‘Items will be of a higher quality with workmanship that will stand the test of time rather than the ‘throw away’ culture of some high street purchases,’ says Catherine Hockley, Managing Director of Andrew Smith & Son, the auction house in Alresford, Hampshire.

While it’s possible to find interesting pieces at anywhere from car boot sales to online marketplaces such as Etsy or eBay, many will find it reassuring to buy from a reputable dealer or auction house.

‘If you buy something at auction, you know it’s been vetted and catalogued by an experienced professional,’ says Hockley. ‘But remember there will be buyer’s premium to pay!’

She advises buyers to look out for anything rare and original in condition, and remember that paperwork, receipts and boxes add value. However, buy something that the recipient will love, rather than what is fashionable.

Rare books

First editions, signed copies, or beautifully bound classics are gifts that appeal to collectors and literature lovers alike. Those from highly popular authors like J.K. Rowling or classic authors like Jane Austen, can become valuable literary assets. First editions in mint condition are the ideal. Factors such as the number of copies printed and cultural significance also come into play. Reputable rare book dealers and members of The Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association can advise. In our local area, The Winchester Bookshop is a treasure trove for vintage book lovers. Laurence Oxley in Alresford is also worth exploring.

Art and prints

Emerging artists or limited-edition prints can be an affordable way to buy interesting pieces and can be a very personal gift. There is also a wealth of interesting vintage art, often at very reasonable prices, for sale at local auction houses and through online auctions and marketplaces such as 1stDibs, The Saleroom and Auctionet. Helpful books in this area (also good gifts) include: The Art of Buying Art: How to evaluate and buy art like a professional collector by Alan Bamberger and Click, Bid, Collect. by Simone Falanca. Many galleries offer advisory services, including Clarendon Fine Art in Winchester and Eastwood Fine Art near Stockbridge.

Fine wines and whiskies

For wine and port, find good vintages from renowned vineyards and seek out fine wine sellers who are usually pleased to advise. They can point you in the direction of regions and vineyards that offer good value and give guidelines on the period when a particular vintage will be drinkable. If buying whisky as a potential ‘investment’, look for limited editions with declared bottle counts from well-known distilleries. In all cases, proper storage to maintain quality is essential. Interesting wine shops close to AJB Wealth include Stone, Vine & Sun in Stockbridge and The Naked Grape in Alresford.

Antique jewellery and collectible watches

Timeless pieces often retain value, especially those with historical significance or unique design. High quality pieces from brands like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Rolex and Patek Philippe are known to hold or increase their value over time.

‘Wristwatches are enjoying a heyday in the current market,’ says Hockley of Andrew Smith & Son. ‘Good names will aways sell.’

The auction house recently sold a lady’s Cartier tank wristwatch, 18ct gold, with an estimate of £1,000-1,500 for £10,000 plus premium. (See image below.)

Look out for iconic models, or models with limited runs, from renowned brands as they tend to hold their value well over time. Original documentation and the box, including the receipt, is important for reselling. Offord & Sons in Winchester has a selection of preloved watches from high profile brands.

D Barker & Son in Alresford is a family business selling quality modern jewellery as well as exquisite pre-owned pieces.

Rare and antique maps

Another thoughtful gift that can be personal to the recipient. Laurence Oxley in Alresford deals in rare, old, and new maps as well as selling books and prints. ‘They have value, along with topographical, historical and artistic interest,’ says manager Anthony Oxley. ‘My father [Laurence Oxley] said that whatever the financial situation, maps would hold their value, and this is still true to a certain extent, even though there seems less interest in antique items generally.’

Special interest collectibles

Rare sports memorabilia and certain LEGO sets have shown remarkable appreciation. Pristine condition and original packaging are extremely important for these items. You may stumble on some real finds both at antique fairs and on the likes of Facebook Marketplace and eBay. Auctions are another source.

Gold coins or bars

As gold prices are high at the moment, this may not be the best year to gift gold coins or jewellery. However, if you do, going to a reputable dealer is essential. The Royal Mint offers a wide selection of gold coins and bars, including both modern day commemorative coins and historic coins. Prices for gold bullion bars start at £133.50 for a 1g bar. The Royal Mint also sells jewellery, with some pieces incorporating coins. with some coins (like Sovereigns) being Capital Gains Tax exempt.

The gift of money

This may not have the charm of a piece of art or a rare book, but it can be an appealing option, particularly if you know the money is needed or desired for a particular purpose. Perhaps to help an adult child furnish a new home or even invest in a new career or business. It’s possible to give away up to £3,000 per year free of tax (£6,000 if you didn’t use the previous year’s allowance) – or more if you have surplus income that you do not need.

And for children only:

Premium bonds

These can be purchased for children under 16 and offer the chance of winning from £25 to £1 million in a monthly draw. The average prize rate is currently 3.6%, and the odds of each £1 Premium Bond number winning a prize is 22,000 to 1. What’s more, they can be sold.

Junior ISAs

This is a gift that could make a huge difference to children or grandchildren when they reach 18. If you wish to make a long-term investment for a child or grandchild, a Junior ISA is a good vehicle. Only a parent or guardian can open one for a child but anyone can contribute, up to a limit of £9,000 per year per child. Making pension contributions for a child is another tax efficient option.

Final Thoughts

All the gifts mentioned above are about thoughtfulness and longevity. While investment gain is the raison d’être of an ISA or other investment vehicle, buying art or other collectibles is altogether different.  The main aim remains to bring pleasure to the recipient, and so any potential financial gain is a bonus. These items can bring joy now and perhaps become even more cherished in the future. However, as ever, the real value lies in the sentiment behind the gift.

AJB Wealth is a wealth management firm based in Alresford, near Winchester, in Hampshire. For an obligation-free consultation, please book a meeting. Or call us on 01428 774 070.

Important: The content of this bulletin is for general consideration only and does not constitute advice. No action must be taken, or refrained from being taken, without first seeking appropriate advice. This company accepts no responsibility for any loss occasioned as a result of any such action, or inaction. It’s important to remember that investments can fall, as well as rise. In the event of early encashment, you may receive less back than your original investment.